Bar
U Zlatého tygra
A legendary Old Town beer hall, once the favourite of writer Bohumil Hrabal, serving Pilsner beer and simple pub snacks to tables of regulars.
Hemingway Bar
A small cocktail bar inspired by Ernest Hemingway, known for classic cocktails, a large absinthe collection served the traditional way and fine rums.
At a glance
- Type
- Cocktail and absinthe bar
- Area
- Nové Město, Prague, Czech Republic
- Price
- $$$ · Upscale
- Official site
- hemingwaybar.cz
Good to know
- Absinthe collection
- Rum
- Cocktails
- Bar snacks
Why we recommend it
Hemingway Bar is a small cocktail bar near the National Theatre that has done more than almost any other venue to put Prague on the international cocktail map. Inspired by Ernest Hemingway, a famous bar regular in his own right, it is an intimate room with a strong focus on service and a carefully chosen back bar. It has been recognised among the world's top bars, and it remains a reference point for the city's bartenders.
The drinks list is the main attraction. Classic cocktails are the foundation, including several associated with Hemingway, alongside the bar's own creations and seasonal specials. Hemingway Bar is also known for its collection of absinthes, which the city's tourism office describes as the widest selection in the country, served in the traditional way with water dripped slowly over sugar. Rum is another speciality, with a wide range of bottles and a rum club for enthusiasts, and there is a strong whisky selection. The bartenders are happy to recommend something if you describe what you like.
Food is limited to bar snacks, but they are carefully done: the menu, designed by head chef Tomáš Kuchyňka, includes fresh fish, Italian pastries and seasonal pairings of vegetables and fruit. Drinks are priced at the upper end for Prague, reflecting the quality and the service.
The bar is small and very popular, so arrive early in the evening or be prepared to wait for a seat. It opens at 17:00 every day and closes around 01:00 from Sunday to Thursday and 02:00 on Friday and Saturday. The atmosphere is relaxed and civilised rather than loud, and it suits couples, small groups of friends and anyone who appreciates a well-made drink. It is not the place for a big group night out.
Opatovická is a quiet street in the New Town, just south of Národní třída and a couple of minutes' walk from the National Theatre. The nearest metro station is Národní třída on line B, and the Národní divadlo and Národní třída tram stops are close by. After a drink, it is easy to continue to Reduta Jazz Club on Národní třída or the bars along the river.
Hemingway Bar FAQs
What is Hemingway Bar known for?
Classic cocktails, a large absinthe collection served the traditional way, and a wide range of rums.
What are Hemingway Bar's opening hours?
It opens daily at 17:00 and closes around 01:00 from Sunday to Thursday and 02:00 on Friday and Saturday.
Do I need to book at Hemingway Bar?
The bar is small and popular, so arrive early in the evening or expect to wait for a seat.
Is there food at Hemingway Bar?
Yes. A menu of bar snacks includes fresh fish, Italian pastries and seasonal pairings.
How is absinthe served at Hemingway Bar?
In the traditional way, with water dripped slowly over sugar.
Is Hemingway Bar expensive?
Drinks are at the upper end of Prague prices, reflecting the quality.
Is it suitable for groups?
It suits couples and small groups best, as the room is small.
How do I get to Hemingway Bar?
Walk from Národní třída metro station on line B or the National Theatre. It is on Opatovická Street.